You (Really) Can Remedy These 6 Common Clutter Problem Spots

When it comes to a messy house, these areas are the repeat offenders, returning again and again to commit the crime of clutter. Closets, stairs, counters all attract stuff, and never seem completely clear of accumulation. We've got tons of tips and strategies for dealing with these trouble spots.

Problem #1: Thou closet overfloweth (lead photo above)

Solution: If you don’t wear something for a year, out it goes. Regularly edit and keep clothes pared down the essentials. Don’t keep pants that fit two sizes ago, and don’t hold onto things that you simply never wear, but feel you should.

Solution: Think dual-purpose. Look for furniture that works hard: beds and coffee tables with drawers, ottomans with lift-off tops for out-of-sight storage, and chests that can stow linens and tableware and also serve as buffets.

Solution: Start an outbox and toss things in it once you realize they are no longer needed. Before birthdays and holidays (or any other time the toy box is overflowing), weed out unused or broken stuff. When the box full, drop it off at a donation center.